Participant-Observations of "Effective Dialogue" at a NASA Center: Toward New Paradigm

Abstract:

Four recently instituted "dialogic" communication forums at a NASA center are described and analyzed. Their discourse is compared to a (typical) paradigmatic model of dialogic discourse principles. It is argued that dialogue which does not fit the exemplary model may nonetheless be effective for building community, investment, and democratic exchange. The study further suggests that consensus and teamwork may be less evident (and perhaps less effective) than individual voice and oppositional stance.